3 day itinerary for Olympic Peninsula

Itinerary

The Olympic Peninsula is a stunning gem in Washington State, filled with lush forests, rugged coastlines, and breathtaking mountains. Here’s a fun and adventurous 3-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty of this incredible area!

## Day 1: Discovering Olympic National Park

Morning:

• Start your day at Hurricane Ridge. Drive up to this stunning viewpoint (check for road conditions, as it can be closed in winter). The panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains are simply breathtaking! Don’t forget your camera!
• Hiking Option: If you’re up for it, take a short hike on the Hurricane Hill Trail. It’s about 3 miles round trip and offers spectacular views.

Lunch:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks or head back down to Port Angeles for a bite at a local café. Try the “Next Door GastroPub” for some delicious local fare!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles to learn more about the park and grab some maps for your adventures.
• Explore the Hoh Rain Forest. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Port Angeles, but the lush greenery and unique ecosystem are worth it! Take the Hall of Mosses Trail for a short, enchanting walk.

Evening:

• Head back to Port Angeles for dinner. Try “The Blackbird Café” for a cozy atmosphere and tasty dishes.
• If you’re up for it, take a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the sunset over the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

## Day 2: Coastal Wonders

Morning:

• Drive to La Push (about 1.5 hours from Port Angeles). The scenic drive is part of the adventure!
• Explore Rialto Beach. Walk along the beach, check out the sea stacks, and enjoy the sound of the waves. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike to Hole-in-the-Wall (about 4 miles round trip).

Lunch:

• Pack a lunch to enjoy on the beach or stop by the “River’s Edge Restaurant” in La Push for some local seafood.

Afternoon:

• Visit Second Beach. It’s a short drive from Rialto Beach and offers another stunning coastal experience. The hike down to the beach is beautiful, and you can explore tide pools and enjoy the scenery.
• If time allows, consider a visit to the nearby Quinault Indian Nation for a cultural experience.

Evening:

• Head back to Forks for dinner. “The Forks Outfitters” has a great selection of local dishes and is a fun spot to relax after a day of exploring.
• If you’re a fan of the “Twilight” series, take a quick tour of Forks and see some of the iconic spots!

## Day 3: Mountains and Lakes

Morning:

• Drive to Lake Crescent. This stunning glacial lake is about a 30-minute drive from Port Angeles. Start your day with a walk along the Marymere Falls Trail (1.5 miles round trip) to see the beautiful waterfall.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at the historic Lake Crescent Lodge. The views from the dining room are fantastic!

Afternoon:

• After lunch, consider renting a kayak or canoe to explore the lake. The water is crystal clear, and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking.
• If you prefer to stay on land, take a hike on the Spruce Railroad Trail for more stunning views of the lake.

Evening:

• Head back to Port Angeles for your final dinner. Treat yourself to a nice meal at “The Landing” for some delicious seafood and a lovely view of the harbor.
• If you have time, take a stroll through downtown Port Angeles to soak in the local vibe and maybe pick up a souvenir!

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and road conditions, especially in the mountains.
• Bring layers! The weather can change quickly in the Pacific Northwest.
• Don’t forget your camera and a good pair of hiking shoes!

Enjoy your adventure on the Olympic Peninsula! It’s a place filled with natural beauty and unforgettable experiences. Safe travels! 🌲🏞️🌊